I’ve just moved to town and, aside from church and work, don’t have a lot of time to make new friends. Since I can’t get a fast response from Dear Abby, do you have any ideas? — Sarah Social

Dear Sarah: I’ve never thought of myself as a “Dear Ellen,” but having been new to the area myself once upon a time, it just so happens I collected a few ideas along the way. (Actually, some of the information is even consumer-oriented.)

During my first week in Chattanooga, two different neighbors invited me to separate functions; one allowed me to meet new pals in the neighborhood and the other introduced me to the Chattanooga Newcomers Club (the latter open only to women). Both appearances enabled me to become friends quickly with some really neat people, many of whom subsequently arranged meetings with their other buddies. So check out Newcomers or your community association; before you know it, you’ll be turning folks away at the door!

Do you have a dog? Certainly, those strolls around the block may help you meet a fellow animal-lover. But take this one step further and find a dog park. As owners stand around watching their dogs play, you’ve a perfect opportunity to strike up a conversation.

Online communities also can become an avenue to connect with others. More and more adults are taking advantage of these sites to make new friends, stay in touch with other chums and family, and even to develop business connections. Just be sure as always to check privacy controls and keep mum about any of your personal information. Aside from social-networking sites, check out www.craigslist.com for even greater ease in maneuvering. While most think of Craig’s List strictly as an avenue to buy and sell products and services, it’s also a unexpected bonus to find local organizations and interests.

Hopefully, one or more of these suggestions will do the trick so you and all my readers can enjoy freedom from consumer woes and a year filled with peace, joy, and love.

Editor’s Note: Ellen Phillips is a retired English teacher who has written two consumer-oriented books. Her Consumer Watch column appears on Saturdays in the Business section of the paper. An expanded version is at www.timesfreepress.com under Local Business. E-mail her at consumerwatch@timesfreepress.com